Representing the United States requires more than athletic excellence — it demands character, discipline and a deep respect for the nation’s colors.

To instill these values, Scott Lawrence, USA Rugby Eagles men’s head coach, opened the 2026 Nations Cup training camp June 23 by inviting leadership from the U.S. Air Force Academy rugby team to address the players in Denver, Colorado, ahead of their July 4 test match against Portugal.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jeff “B2” Burrows ’81, director of USAFA men's rugby, led the presentation. A former rugby player and retired fighter pilot, Col. Burrows brought a powerful visual aid: an American flag he flew aboard an F-16C during a combat mission over Iraq on July 4, 1997, in support of Operation Southern Watch. Burrows used the combat-flown flag to bridge the gap between military service and elite athletic performance. He illustrated how the foundational principles of rugby mirror the core values of the armed forces: integrity on and off the pitch, passion for the jersey and the mission, solidarity as a unified squad, discipline under intense match pressure and respect for opponents and the nation’s colors.

Future military officers led the hands-on portion of the training. Cadet First Class Will Grzelak, captain of the USAFA men’s rugby team, and Cadet Second Class Nate Hoss served as the primary instructors for the national team’s players and coaching staff. The cadets guided the Eagles through the precise customs, courtesies and traditional military procedures for handling the American flag. By working side-by-side with professional athletes, the cadets translated abstract concepts of national duty into a practical exercise in precision. The session directly showcased USAFA’s mission of developing leaders of character who preserve heritage and command respect.

The lessons of leadership and national pride resonated throughout camp, culminating in a 30-29 victory over Portugal. Following the series, Lawrence reflected on the profound impact of the Academy’s visit and the combat-flown flag, which the team carried with them throughout the tournament.

The flag itself became a permanent fixture of the Eagles’ campaign, serving as an active source of inspiration in the team environment.

“The flag you entrusted to us became part of that mission," Lawrence shared. "You carried it aboard your aircraft in service to our country. In turn, we carried it with us to each of our three matches. It accompanied our team into every contest and served as a constant reminder of service, sacrifice, discipline and the responsibility that comes with representing the United States. We did not take that responsibility lightly…. Its presence helped place our own challenges into perspective and reminded our players that the jersey they wear stands for something far greater than any individual, match or result.”